Drunk cop kills neighbor

MANILA, Philippines - A policeman who was engaged in a drinking spree shot and killed his neighbor in Barangay 35, Caloocan City Sunday afternoon.

According to police reports, Senior Police Officer 1 Marvin San Juan, 45, was drinking on the street with some friends when a commotion occurred at a nearby basketball court just before 1 p.m.

San Juan – assigned to the Caloocan Zone 6 police community precinct – reportedly tried to pacify two groups and fired warning shots, accidentally hitting Aquilino Elesterio, 45, in the chest. Elesterio was declared dead on arrival at the Martinez Hospital.

An investigator, asked why an off-duty policeman was carrying a gun while drinking on the street, said police officers can be called upon to do their duty any time of the day.

Troublemaker?

A witness, who asked not to be identified, said the police report is a lie.

The witness said San Juan was drunk and creating trouble in the area. Several men tried to pacify him but he reportedly fired his gun indiscriminately, hitting Elesterio.

A police officer who asked not to be named said lawmen are no longer required to fire warning shots, according to the new rules of engagement.

San Juan surrendered after the incident and is in the custody of the Caloocan police.